FIFA World Cup 2010

Chris Coleman Ready to Hand Ethan Ampadu a Debut

Wales have decided to make a surprise inclusion for the upcoming World Cup 2018 qualifying matches against Austria and Moldova, as a youngster Ethan Ampadu is one of the names in the 25 man squad.

He is one of the latest young talents to make the switch to Chelsea, as he has decided to make West London his home from Exeter. The 16-year-old is not done 17 until September, but this will not prevent him from being one the sidelines for Welsh national team, according to Coleman. He says that every player capable of representing the national team will get a chance with Wales.

Coleman also denied that the inclusion of Ethan Ampadu is primarily in order to make him available for the Welsh team in the future. The centre back had been with Exeter throughout his career, but he is also capable of representing for England. The defender is also capable of playing as a defensive midfielder. He has signed a contract with Chelsea until the summer of 2019.

Even though he represented the England under 16 team, Wales have been his preferred choice in the under 17 and under 19 levels. A debut for Wales in a competitive game will prevent him from switching allegiances in the future.

Ethan Ampadu is highly regarded in the national team quarters. “In terms of his ability and level of football he is capable of being with us in the 23.He’s not a player I’ve put in for the sake of it.I have no doubt he will be able to handle it if we call upon him in some capacity,” said Coleman, who also spoke about the possibility of getting into the World Cup 2018 qualification places. At the moment, Wales are outside the top two and will miss out on the premier competition in Russia.